Indexing system package and display system

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Applications No. 60/256,326, filed Dec. 19, 2000 and No. 60/234,162 filed on Sep. 20, 2000.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to an indexing system including tabbed dividers that are locatable adjacent to label indicia on a display element. More particularly, the invention relates to a system of dividers with see-through tabs for placement over indicia identifying the divider.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Typical dividers for stacks of sheets such as paper have tabs extending beyond the stack. The tabs are labeled to identify the divided sections of the stack. Some known tabs have transparent pockets to insert a label connected directly to the divider. The dividers are often employed in stack holders, such as binders, including ring binder and spiral binders and other types, books, and folders typically have two covers that pivot with respect to a binding assembly such as a spine. The dividers separate and visually label various sections, such as chapters, that are bound and to permit easy access to any one of these sections. The area provided for the indicia that identifies the sections is limited by the size of the tab.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,516,871 shows tabulated sheet protectors with tab sections that have letters printed thereon. Also, U.S. Pat. No. 5,908,259, for example, discloses an index sheet assembly with divider sheets that have outstanding tabs. The tabs align with sections on a foldout portion of the assembly.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to an indexing system that includes a label display element that is associable with a stack of objects. The display element includes a label portion disposed in a viewing position beyond the stack and configured for displaying label indicia identifying a one or more objects in the stack. At least one tab is associable with the objects of the stack in a tab position extending beyond the stack and over at least a portion of the label portion. In addition, the tab is configured to permit viewing of the label indicia through the tab.

Preferably, the indexing system also includes a body portion connected to the tab and configured for positioning the tab in the tab position. In an embodiment of the invention, the body portion comprises a divider configured for separating the objects of the stack, and the body portion can include a pocket. In one embodiment, the body portion and the display element are operatively connected along two edges disposed at an angle to each other to form a pouch for receiving a section of the stack.

The tab can include a framed window portion that permits viewing of the label indicia therethrough. Also, the tab may comprise a sufficiently translucent or transparent material such that the label indicia is visible through the material.

Preferably, the indicia receivable on the label portion includes first and second indicia disposed at first and second locations on the label portion. First and second tabs are positionable over at least a portion of the first and second indicia, respectively. The first and second tabs are preferably of different colors.

A preferred display element comprises a label sheet, and the display element includes a display holder configured and dimensioned to hold and position the label sheet in the viewing position, for placement under the tabs. In one embodiment, the label holder includes a pocket configured to hold the label sheet. Preferably, the stack of sheets that the sheet holder is configured to hold have predetermined dimensions, and the label sheet is also substantially of the predetermined dimension.

Preferably, the display element includes first and second display elements configured for holding in the stack holder on opposite sides of the stack. Additionally, the first and second display elements in the open position are disposed such that the divider is selectively movable from adjacent the label portion of the first display element to adjacent the label portion of the second display element.

In a preferred embodiment, the label display element comprises a label sheet. The label sheet includes a label binding portion for binding with a stack holder with a stack of objects having predetermined dimensions, a label edge disposed on the display element for extending beyond the stack, and a label portion disposed between the label edge and the stack and configured for receiving label indicia for identifying objects in the stack. A sectioning portion of the indexing system includes the body, with a body binding portion for binding to the sheet holder with the stack, and a tab associated with the body. The tab extends beyond the stack and over at least a portion of the label portion when the display element and sectioning portion are bound to the stack holder.

The label portion preferably includes a plurality of label portions, and the sectioning portion comprises a plurality of sectioning portions. Also, the tab of each sectioning portion is disposed with respect to the divider binding portion of said each sectioning portion for placement over at least a portion of a different one of the label portions when the label sheet and divider are bound to the stack holder. The preferred stack holder is a ring binder, and the label binding portion and the body binding portions each includes a mounting portion configured for receiving and attaching to the rings of the binder.

The label binding portion of one embodiment includes first and second panels, each bindable to the stack holder. An embodiment of the display element is bindable to the binding rings by the first panel, such that the label edge extends beyond the stack by a first lateral distance. This display element is also bindable to the binding rings by the second panel, such that the label edge extends beyond the stack at a second lateral distance that is different from the first lateral distance. The first and second panels are preferably foldably connected such that the label sheet is bindable to the sheet holder at the first and second lateral distances. With the first and second panels unfolded, the label edge may extend beyond the stack by the first lateral distance, and with the first and second panels in overlapping association, the label edge may extend beyond the stack by the second lateral distance.

One embodiment is a disk holder assembly with a case and a plurality of body portions pivotably connected to the case for separating disks in a stack of disks. At least one tab extends from the body portions for identifying sections of the stack of disks. In this embodiment, the body portions have a substantially round contour.

A preferred embodiment of an indexing system package has at least one indexing system element with a label window received in a container. The container has front and back covers and a label portion is disposed on the interior of the back cover with at least one label indicia provided on the label portion. The front cover has an opening adjacent the label window for viewing the label portion, and the label window is positioned visibly in the opening and over at least a portion of the label portion such that the label indicia is visible therethrough.

In one embodiment, the container comprises an envelope and the envelope has a second opening along a top edge for receiving the indexing system elements. The envelope can also include a flap extending from the front cover that bends over the opening to contact the back cover and seal the indexing elements therein. The front and back covers are dimensioned for positively positioning the label windows over the indicia. The indexing system elements can include a plurality of sheet dividers where each divider includes a tab extending therefrom that comprises the label window.

A package display system constructed according to the invention has a storage member for holding packages, a face member adjacent the storage member and having at least one label indicia disposed thereupon. At least one label window extends from the storage member and over the face member and the label window is positioned over at least a portion of the label portion such that the label indicia is visible therethrough.

A method of providing a user with a label template over a network according to the present invention comprises storing at least one label template on a server computer coupled to a network. The label template comprises an electronic file useable with preselected software and configured to provide a plurality of user modifiable text boxes when the template is used with the software. The label template is also configured to enable the printing of a label sheet with the text boxes printed on a sheet of paper in a preselected format to create a label display element. The method further comprises enabling the user to select the label template for download, and transmitting the label template to the user over the network.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a bottom view of an index system constructed according to the present invention assembled in a three-ring binder;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view thereof in a partially open position;

FIG. 3 is an inside front view thereof in an open position;

FIG. 4 is a front cutaway view of an alternative embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a display element constructed according to the invention;

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a back display element;

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the display element of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a front view thereof mounted in a binder;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 is a front view of yet another embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 11 and 12 are perspective views of alternative embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a front view of another embodiment in an open position;

FIGS. 14 and 15 are front views of alternative embodiments of dividers and stacks according to the invention;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention with adhereable tabs and label sheet;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an accordion file constructed according to the invention;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a disk case constructed according to the invention;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a wallet insert constructed according to the invention;

FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of an indexing system package constructed according to the invention;

FIG. 21 is a back perspective view of the package of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a display stand constructed according to the invention;

FIG. 23 is a screen shot of an Internet home page according to the invention;

FIG. 24 is screen shot of a template web page according to the invention; and

FIG. 25 is a view of a template according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a first embodiment of an indexing system <b>20</b> constructed according to the present invention is shown in use with a stack holder that is a ring binder <b>22</b>, such as a 3-ring binder. The binder <b>22</b> has a front cover <b>24</b>, a back cover <b>26</b>, and a spine <b>28</b>, connecting the front and back covers <b>24</b> and <b>26</b>. The binder <b>22</b> further includes a binding mechanism <b>30</b> attached to either cover <b>24</b> or <b>26</b> or the spine <b>28</b>, preferably for releasably securing sheets or a stack of objects, such as a stack of sheets <b>33</b>, to the binder <b>22</b>. Suitable binding mechanisms include spirals, clamps, clasps, hooks, other ring-type mechanisms and other known binding mechanisms. The binding mechanism <b>30</b>, as shown, is secured to the inside surface of the spine <b>28</b> and has substantially circular rings <b>32</b>, although differentially shaped rings can be used. For example, equally suitable is a binding mechanism <b>30</b> having D-shaped rings secured to the inside surface of the back cover <b>26</b>. The stack of sheets <b>33</b> is shown inserted within the binder <b>22</b> preferably with the rings <b>32</b> of the binder <b>22</b> engaging pre-punched holes disposed on the sheets <b>33</b>. Additionally, the stack of sheets <b>33</b> is shown being divided into various sections. Additional stacks can be bound in the binder <b>22</b> behind the display elements. These additional stacks preferably may be either unindexed or indexed with a separate set of dividers.

In FIG. 2, the binder <b>22</b> is shown with the front cover <b>24</b> partially in an opened position, exposing the contents contained therein. This embodiment of the indexing system <b>20</b> has a front label display element, which preferably includes a label sheet <b>34</b> adjacent to the front cover <b>24</b> and a second label sheet <b>34</b> adjacent to the back cover <b>26</b>. Each label sheet <b>34</b> includes a label edge <b>36</b> extending beyond the stack of sheets <b>33</b> contained in the binder <b>22</b>. In other embodiments, the stack can include other types and shapes of objects. At least one label portion <b>37</b> is disposed on the label sheet <b>34</b> preferably in a viewing position between the label edge <b>36</b> and the stack <b>33</b>, adjacent to label edge <b>36</b>. Each label portion is configured for receiving at least one label indicia <b>44</b>, shown as headings in the figures, to identify the various sections within the stack <b>33</b>. Preferably, the label portions <b>37</b> include a plurality of label portions or areas <b>38</b>-<b>42</b> for receiving a plurality of indica <b>44</b> with each indicia <b>44</b> corresponding to each section of the stack of sheets <b>33</b>. Five headings <b>44</b> are shown extending substantially across the entire all of the label portions <b>37</b> of the label sheet <b>34</b>. The number of headings preferably corresponds to the number of sections contained in the stack of sheets <b>33</b>, as desired by the user.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, a preferred embodiment has at least one section indicator associable with the stack of objects, which preferably includes at least one divider, and preferably a plurality of dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b>. The exemplary five dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> are shown operatively associated with the label sheet <b>34</b> for dividing the various sections within the stack of sheets <b>33</b> in the binder <b>22</b>. Each divider <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> has a body portion <b>52</b> and a tab <b>54</b> extending from a body edge <b>56</b>, for dividing the objects in the stack. The body portions <b>52</b> preferably form part of the stack of objects. Each of the dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> and the label sheets <b>34</b> have a divider binding portion <b>58</b> and a label binding portion <b>60</b>. Each binding portion <b>58</b>,<b>60</b> of the preferred embodiment includes a mounting portion <b>62</b>,<b>64</b>, configured for binding to the binding mechanism <b>30</b> preferably including apertures or pre-punched holes for receiving and attaching to the rings <b>32</b> of the binder <b>22</b>. Accordingly, the dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> and label sheets <b>34</b> are easily attached to the binder <b>22</b> by inserting pre-punched holes on the dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> and label sheets <b>34</b> through the rings <b>32</b>. Once inserted, the dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> are operatively associated to the label sheets <b>34</b> to ensure that each section of the stack of sheets <b>33</b> is separated from the others. The label sheets <b>34</b> are preferably inserted with the dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> therebetween, and are most preferably positioned and substantially adjacent the covers <b>24</b>,<b>26</b> and on opposite sides of the dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b>. Accordingly, the dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> are selectively movable from adjacent the label portions <b>37</b> of the first label sheet <b>34</b> to adjacent the label portions <b>37</b> of the second label sheet <b>34</b> by sliding the pre-punched holes of the dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> over the rings <b>32</b> when the dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> and stack sections are flipped thereover.

The dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> are additionally configured with respect to the dimensions of the stack of sheets <b>33</b> contemplated for use within the binder <b>22</b> such that the tabs <b>54</b> extend or project beyond an unbound edge <b>66</b> of the sheets, and preferably the edge opposite from the binding portion <b>68</b> of the stack. In alternative embodiments, the tabs extend from other edges, including edges adjacent the bound edge, such as the top and bottom edges, and the display portion and labels are aligned behind the tabs. For example, binders are commonly available for various standard size sheets of papers. Some of the typical sheets include the standard letter size, which measures 8½×11 inches, legal size, which measures 8½×14 inches, or A4 size, which measures 8.264×11.684 inches. Other embodiments of dividers and display elements are sized for use with other sizes of binders, such as personal planners, for which typical sheet dimensions include 5½×8½ inches, 3¾×6¾ inches, 3½×6½ inches, and 3×5 inches. To accommodate these various standard size sheets, the body <b>52</b> of the divider <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> employed is preferably of similar or substantially the same dimensions as the stack of sheets <b>33</b>, although other shapes or sizes that are different than the sheets can alternatively be employed with the tab <b>54</b> extending beyond the sheet dimension. Accordingly, with the dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> dividing the stack of sheets <b>33</b> in the binder <b>22</b>, the tabs <b>54</b> of the various dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> are preferably clearly visible by the user and may be used to locate the various sections within the stack of sheets <b>33</b>.

Additionally, each tab <b>54</b> of the various dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> is preferably further configured to extend from a different position along the divider edge such that when the plurality of dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> is operatively associated with the label sheet <b>34</b> of the display station, each tab <b>54</b> of each divider <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> is in alignment with and preferably disposed over one label indicia <b>44</b> on the label portions <b>37</b>. As shown in FIG. 2, preferably when viewed squarely from the front, the tab <b>54</b> is located over label indicia <b>44</b> marked as “HEADING 1” at label area <b>38</b>, the tab <b>54</b> is over the label indicia <b>44</b> marked as “HEADING 2” at label areas <b>38</b>-<b>42</b> and so on through the final tab <b>54</b>, which is over the label indicia <b>44</b> marked “HEADING 5” at label area <b>42</b>. Thus, the five dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> and their associated tabs <b>54</b> are shown with each subsequent tab <b>54</b> extending in alignment with and over the label portions <b>37</b> and label areas <b>38</b>-<b>42</b> at different stations along the divider edge. In this manner, each tab <b>54</b> preferably overlaps a different label indicia <b>44</b> disposed on the label portions <b>37</b>. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, tabs <b>54</b> are substantially planar and label indicia <b>44</b> reside on a separate plane substantially parallel thereto, and offset or spaced from tabs <b>54</b>.

A window portion of each of the tab <b>54</b> is configured to permit viewing of the indicia <b>44</b> through the window portion when the dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> and the label sheets <b>34</b> are secured to the binder <b>22</b>. The window portion may be in the form of a cutout <b>70</b> made on the tab <b>54</b>, as shown in FIG. 4, a cutout with a transparent covering, or in other forms to permit viewing of the label areas therebeneath. The window <b>70</b> of FIG. 4 has a frame <b>55</b> extending around the perimeter of the window <b>70</b>. Preferably the entire tab <b>54</b> is made of a sufficiently translucent or transparent material to permit viewing of the indicia <b>44</b> behind the tab <b>54</b>. The entire divider may alternatively be constructed of a transparent material.

The tab <b>54</b> of the divider are arranged sequentially at the various stations along the divider body edge <b>56</b>, and all label indicia <b>44</b> is preferably easily viewed at a glance. As the label sheets <b>34</b> of two display elements are preferably secured to the binder <b>22</b> with the series of corresponding headings facing the stack of sheets <b>33</b> contained in the binder <b>22</b>, as shown in FIG. 3, each of the headings is easily viewable through the windows on the tabs <b>54</b> regardless of the point along the stack of sheets <b>33</b> to which the binder <b>22</b> is opened.

For example, FIG. 3 shows the two dividers <b>46</b>, <b>47</b> adjacent to the label portions <b>37</b> of one label sheet <b>34</b>, while the remaining three dividers <b>48</b>-<b>50</b> are adjacent the label portions <b>37</b> of the other label sheet <b>34</b>. Accordingly, a first portion of the group of tabs <b>54</b>, namely the tabs <b>54</b> of the first two dividers <b>46</b>, <b>47</b>, permit viewing of a first portion of the headings, namely “HEADING 1” and “HEADING 2” of the front label sheet <b>34</b> and a second portion of the tabs <b>54</b>, namely the tabs <b>54</b> of the last three dividers <b>48</b>-<b>50</b>, permit viewing of a second portion of the headings, namely “HEADING 3,” “HEADING 4,” and “HEADING 5”, which are disposed on the back label sheet <b>34</b>. Thus, all headings and label areas <b>38</b>-<b>42</b> on both label sheets <b>34</b> are preferably easily viewable through windows of the tabs <b>54</b> adjacent thereto or plainly viewable adjacent to the divider edge and the edge of the sheets. Additionally, the dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> and label sheets <b>34</b> are substantially flat when attached to the binder <b>22</b>, further facilitating the ease of viewing the headings on the label portions <b>37</b>. Moreover, when the plurality of dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> are arranged so as to divide the stack of sheets according to the various sections, the number of dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> preferably corresponds with the number of sections and the associated number of coordinated headings. Also, the tabs <b>54</b> are preferably approximately 2¼×½ inches, with a rounded contour, or the ends of the tabs <b>54</b> slightly tapered to form a handle to facilitate selection and gripping by the user.

Preferably, the dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> are constructed from a material more rigid or stiff than the sheets of paper contained in the binder <b>22</b>. Suitable materials include plastics, paper, cardboard, manila paper, and combinations thereof. Most preferably, the dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> may be constructed with the body <b>52</b> and tab portion being transparent or translucent either in whole or in part and may either collectively be monochromatic or a mixture of colors. Preferably, the tab and the body <b>52</b> of the divider are integrally constructed. Most preferably, each divider is preferably constructed from a single sheet with the tab die cut from the sheet.

Referring to FIG. 5, the label sheet of the preferred display element includes a label holder <b>72</b> that is configured to hold and position an indicia sheet <b>74</b> having the indicia <b>74</b>, including the plurality of headings in the viewing position, such that the headings are disposed in alignment in the label areas <b>38</b>-<b>42</b> and label portions <b>37</b> of the display element. Each of the label sheets <b>34</b> includes front and back panels <b>76</b>, <b>78</b> that are sealed along at least one side, and preferably three sides <b>80</b> to form a pocket <b>84</b>, and open at another side <b>82</b> for receiving the indicia sheet <b>74</b>. To facilitate such alignment of the indicia sheet <b>74</b>, the pocket <b>84</b> of the label holder <b>72</b> extends from the label edge <b>36</b> substantially the width of the indicia sheet <b>74</b> toward the label binding portion <b>60</b> and has a width similar or slightly large than that of the indicia sheet <b>74</b>.

Additionally, the indicia sheet preferably has about the same predetermined dimensions as the sheets of the stack contained in the binder <b>22</b>. Thus, headings on the indicia sheet may be easily prepared by printing the headings on a printer on a standard size sheet of paper. Most preferably, the indicia sheet is printed by the user when printing the sheets to be stored in the binder <b>22</b>. Using commonly available word processing software, the indicia sheet may be prepared at the same time as the user prepares the stack of sheets <b>33</b> and can be inserted within the pocket <b>84</b> of the label holder <b>72</b> along with the sheets into the binder <b>22</b>.

Depending on the size and type of the binder <b>22</b> used with the present indexing system <b>20</b>, the binding portion may benefit from adjustments to ensure proper alignment of the tabs <b>54</b> with the label indicia <b>44</b>. For example, especially with round ring binder mechanisms, the lateral position of the unbound edge <b>66</b> of the stack can vary with respect to the relative position of the label portions <b>37</b>, depending on the size of the rings <b>32</b> and thickness of the stack. A larger ring will tend to position the display element further inwardly, towards the binding mechanism <b>30</b> to the stack unbound edge <b>66</b> for a commonly available 1 inch binder <b>22</b> having rings <b>32</b> with approximately a 1 inch radius, the unbound edge <b>66</b> of the sheets near the center of the stack may be shifted with respect to the unbound edge <b>66</b> of the sheets at the front or back of the stack by about one-half inch due to the shape of the rings <b>32</b>. This behavior of the sheets is less noticeable when the binder <b>22</b> has a smaller ring capacity or with D-shaped rings <b>32</b>. With a 3 inch or 5 inch binder, the difference between edge positions of the sheets in the stack with the binder <b>22</b> in the opened position becomes significantly more prominent.

Accordingly, to accommodate the variability of the size of the binder that the user may desire, an alternative embodiment of the display element <b>86</b> is mountable to the binding mechanism <b>30</b> to position the label portions at a variable distance from the label binding portion <b>60</b>, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. Display element <b>86</b> has label portions <b>88</b> disposed adjacent to the label edge <b>90</b>, a pocket <b>92</b> for receiving an indicia sheet <b>84</b>, and a label binding portion <b>94</b>. The label binding portion <b>94</b> includes at least two separate binding panels <b>96</b>,<b>98</b> each having preferably pre-punched holes <b>100</b> for engaging the rings <b>32</b> of the binder <b>22</b>. Preferably, the panels <b>96</b>,<b>98</b> may have openings that are open to the perimeter of the display element, to permit insertion of a ring or spiral of a binder <b>22</b> without opening the binder <b>22</b>. An opening <b>106</b> preferably connects the openings of the first and second panels and extends across the hinge <b>102</b>. When the binding panels <b>96</b>,<b>98</b> are folded over each other, the overlapping halves of the openings <b>106</b> provide a tapered opening <b>113</b> with a wide opening portion <b>109</b> that leads to a narrow opening portion <b>111</b>. The tapered opening <b>113</b> allows a binding ring or other mechanism to be received and snapped into the openings <b>113</b> and holes <b>100</b>. Additionally, the pocket <b>92</b> has an opening that extends laterally from the label edge toward the label binding portion, covering about half of the label sheet <b>84</b>.

The two binding panels are preferably pivotally connected to each other at hinge line <b>102</b>, which preferably comprises a scan line, and to the remaining portion of the label sheet <b>84</b> at scan line <b>104</b>. When the label sheet <b>84</b> is mounted to the binder <b>22</b> through the mounting portion <b>62</b> of the first panel <b>96</b>, the label edge extends beyond said stack of sheets and the binding mechanism <b>30</b> by first lateral distances. Similarly, when label sheet <b>84</b> is attached to the binder <b>22</b> through the mounting portion <b>64</b> of the second panel <b>98</b>, the label edge extends beyond said stack of sheets and the binding mechanism <b>30</b> by second lateral distances that are respectively shorter than the first lateral distances. Preferably, when the label sheet <b>84</b> is attached using the second panel, the first panel is folded along the hinge <b>102</b> in an overlapping configuration with the first panel, such that the label sheet <b>84</b> is attached to the binder <b>22</b> using both mounting portions of the label sheet <b>84</b>. Accordingly, the label sheet <b>84</b> may be attached to the binder <b>22</b> individually with the panels substantially parallel to and extending away from each other or in an overlapping configuration with the panels overlapping each other, to selectively vary the extension of the label edge and label portions <b>88</b> with respect to the stack of sheets and binding mechanism <b>30</b>. Therefore, by securing the label sheet <b>84</b> to the binder <b>22</b> using different sets of the holes or other openings or structures to attach to the binder <b>22</b>, the lateral extension of the label sheet <b>84</b> and the label portions <b>88</b> may be adjusted according to the sheet capacity of the binder <b>22</b>.

The label sheet <b>84</b> is preferably adjusted to ensure that the label portions <b>88</b> extends sufficiently beyond the stack of sheets contained in the binder <b>22</b>. Moreover, the user may start with the label sheet <b>84</b> attached to the binder <b>22</b> with panels in the overlapping configuration and modify the width of the label sheet <b>84</b> by using the first panel to attach to the binder <b>22</b> as more sheets are stored in the binder <b>22</b>. In this manner, the label sheet <b>84</b> may be easily adjusted to accommodate the changing capacity of the binder <b>22</b> to ensure that the tabs <b>54</b> of the dividers <b>46</b>-<b>50</b> are in alignment with the label portions <b>88</b> of the label sheet <b>84</b>. An alternative embodiment has additional panels. Referring to FIG. 7, the rear side of the display element <b>86</b> also preferably has another see-through pocket, which can cover substantially the entire rear side, to receive a rear title page <b>107</b>.

In FIG. 8, the display element is shown and attached to the binder rings <b>32</b> by the holes in the first panel. Thus, the width <b>108</b> of the display element in this configuration is greater than the width <b>110</b> thereof from the openings of the first panel when attached by the second panel from the openings of the second panel.

The embodiment shown in FIG. <b>9</b> and front and back covers <b>112</b>, <b>114</b> that are pivotally connected along a hinge <b>116</b> line for securing a stack of sheets between the covers. A display element <b>118</b> is associated with one or both covers and is preferably constructed to each of the covers. Most preferably, the display element includes a label edge <b>120</b> that extends beyond the stack sheets held between the covers and label portions <b>122</b> disposed adjacent to the label edge <b>120</b> and configured for receiving a label indicia <b>44</b>.

A plurality of dividers <b>124</b> are disposed between the covers and have inner edges that are held in proper position for tubes <b>126</b> to overlap with the label portions by the hinge line in a protective association and position similar to the overlapping association described of the previous embodiments.

The dividers are alternatively secured to each other along a common edge, such as at the hinge <b>116</b>.

Referring to FIG. 10, dividers <b>130</b> and label sheets <b>132</b> are secured along two adjacent edges <b>134</b> such that the dividers and the covers form various pouches therebetween for receiving sections of a stack of sheets. As folders are typically intended for holding fewer sheets than binders, by having two sealed edges, the pouch formed by the open space between the covers and the dividers conveniently and securely hold sections of the stack of sheets containing information. Additionally, each section of the stack of sheets is tabbed to facilitate access and view.

As in the previous embodiments, the display elements preferably include inside and outside transparent sheets for permitting viewing of the label portions and a title page on the outside, facing away from the stack. Using commonly available software programs, the user may prepare a cover, label indicia <b>44</b>, and contents of the presentation or brochure. The prepared documents can easily be printed on a printer and inserted within their respective positions in the folder.

The sheet holder of FIG. 11 is a spiral bound notebook <b>136</b> with a spiral binding <b>138</b> on a top side thereof. A front cover <b>140</b> of the notebook <b>136</b> has a width <b>142</b> from the binding that is shorter than the width <b>144</b> of the back cover <b>146</b>. Thus, the see-through tabs <b>148</b> of the dividers and the label areas <b>150</b> of the label portions are visible even with the notebook closed. The display element <b>151</b> preferably comprises a transparent pocket affixed to the cover <b>140</b> to receive a label sheet. Alternatively, the display element <b>151</b> may include a sticker adhered to the cover in the viewing position.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 12 is similar to the one of FIG. 11, but the stack holder of this embodiment is a clip board <b>153</b> with a resiliently biased clip <b>155</b> holding a paper pad <b>157</b>. Display element <b>159</b> is preferably part of the paper pad <b>157</b>, and preferably includes a rear cardboard panel <b>161</b> of the pad <b>157</b> that is attached to stack <b>163</b> at a top edge portion <b>165</b> thereof.

FIG. 13 shows a report cover <b>152</b> with front and back covers <b>154</b>,<b>156</b> connected to a stack <b>158</b> with a plurality of tabbed dividers <b>160</b> with metal band-type binding fasteners <b>162</b> that extend through both covers <b>154</b>,<b>156</b> and the stack <b>158</b> and are bent around eyelets <b>164</b> in the back cover <b>156</b>. The back cover <b>156</b> includes a display element with a pocket <b>166</b>, preferably configured to receive a label sheet <b>168</b> of similar size as the sheets of the stack <b>158</b>. A framed label window <b>170</b> permits viewing of a label portion <b>172</b> of the label sheet <b>168</b> and is positioned to align in a viewing position under the tabs of the dividers <b>160</b>. In this embodiment, the front cover <b>154</b> does not have a separate display element.

The dividers <b>174</b>,<b>176</b> shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 have body portions <b>178</b>,<b>180</b> shaped and dimensioned differently than the sheets of the stacks <b>182</b>. These bodies <b>178</b> are non-rectangular, although another embodiment has a rectangular body that is of a different size than a stack with which it is intended to be used. Divider <b>174</b> is formed of two materials, such as a paper, cardboard, or plastic portion <b>184</b> fixed to a transparent portion <b>186</b>, which forms part of the body portion <b>178</b> and the tab <b>188</b>.

Referring to FIG. 16, the sheet holder of this embodiment is a book <b>190</b>, such as a picture album. The book <b>190</b> includes body portions, which comprise pages <b>194</b>. The pages <b>194</b> may include pockets <b>195</b>, preferably open on a side thereof, such as top side <b>197</b>. Transparent tabs <b>192</b> are attached, preferably by adhering, to pages <b>194</b> of the book <b>190</b>. A display element comprises a label sheet <b>196</b> that is attached, to a cover <b>198</b> of the book <b>190</b>. Preferably, adhesive is disposed on the underside of inward portion <b>201</b>, located inwardly from hinge <b>202</b>, to attach to the book <b>190</b>. Alternatively, the label sheet <b>196</b> can be attached to the other cover <b>200</b>, or to a page <b>194</b> of the book <b>190</b>, and by means other than adhesives. Hinge <b>202</b> of the label sheet <b>196</b> is preferably configured for folding the label sheet <b>196</b> thereabout to be stowed preferably completely between the covers <b>198</b>,<b>200</b> when the indexing system is not in use. The tabs <b>192</b> overlap with at least a portion of label areas <b>206</b>, preferably when viewed at a preselected angle, preferably generally orthogonally, with respect to the open pages <b>194</b>.

The label sheet <b>196</b> includes heading dividing indicia, preferably lines <b>204</b> to visually separate label areas <b>206</b>. The label sheet <b>196</b> of this embodiment is preferably provided label areas <b>206</b> configured to receive label indicia when added by a user when tabs are applied. In an alternative embodiment, the display element comprises a plurality of label sheets attached side-by-side with the label areas <b>206</b> disposed under each tab <b>192</b>. In this embodiment, the stack includes the pages <b>194</b> which connect the tabs <b>192</b> to the book <b>190</b>.

In this embodiment, the body portions are part of the stack that is held and divided at the tabs <b>192</b>. Other pages <b>194</b> of the book <b>190</b> do not have tabs, and are contained within the divided sections.

The embodiment of FIG. 17 includes a stack holder that is an accordion file <b>208</b> with dividers <b>210</b>, including the front cover <b>212</b>. Back cover <b>214</b> comprises a display element <b>216</b>, although the display element can be fitted instead to one of the dividers <b>210</b>. See-through tabs <b>218</b> extend from the dividers <b>210</b> to overlap with the label areas <b>220</b> of the display element <b>216</b>. Pockets are formed between the dividers <b>210</b> and the covers <b>212</b>,<b>214</b> to contain sections of a stack. The file <b>208</b> has three expandable walls <b>222</b> that preferably connect corresponding three sides of the dividers <b>210</b> and the covers <b>212</b>,<b>214</b> to expand substantially in parallel with each other.

Referring to FIG. 18, an embodiment of a stack holder is a media holder, preferably a disk holder <b>224</b>. The disk holder <b>224</b> includes a case <b>226</b> with top and bottom covers <b>228</b>, which are preferably pivotally connected together and configured to close as a shell and hook together with closure <b>230</b>. A display element <b>232</b> is disposed on the inside of the top cover <b>228</b>, and includes label portions with label areas <b>234</b> with label indicia <b>236</b>, in this case indicating the type of music contained on the disks in different sections of the held stack <b>238</b>. The label areas <b>234</b> are arranged along a curve, preferably to follow the edge of the stack of disk holders <b>240</b>.

Disk holders <b>240</b> have body portions <b>241</b> that preferably include a pocket <b>242</b> with an opening <b>244</b>, and are configured to receive and hold disks <b>246</b>. The pockets are preferably clear plastic sleeves with front and back pocket sheets. Other disk holding members can alternatively be used instead of pockets. The preferred shape of the body portion <b>241</b> generally follows the contour of the disks <b>246</b> to be held, and are thus preferably round. Where other objects are to be held, the shape of the body portions preferably follows the shape of the objects.

A tab <b>248</b> extends from some of the disk holders <b>240</b> and are positioned to overlap with, and allow viewing therethrough the indicia <b>236</b> on the label areas <b>234</b>. Tabs <b>248</b> are arranged in an arc to follow the shape of the edges of the body portions <b>246</b>. The stack also includes disk holders <b>250</b>, which do not include tabs, and dividers <b>252</b> with body portions and tabs, but no pockets, to further divide the stack <b>238</b>.

Referring to FIG. 19, stack holder <b>254</b> is a wallet insert with a stack of panels <b>256</b> held by alternatingly connecting at top and bottom edges <b>258</b>,<b>260</b> thereof for expansion and contraction of the stack of panels <b>256</b>. The panels <b>256</b> include body portions <b>264</b> with <b>266</b> pockets to receive items such as business cards and credit cards, and tabs <b>262</b> extending beyond the body portions <b>264</b>. The central tabs <b>262</b> are preferably formed as cutouts from the adjacent panels <b>256</b>, and protrude from top hinges <b>268</b>. Back panel <b>256</b> includes a display element <b>270</b> with a pocket <b>272</b> configured to receive a label sheet <b>274</b>. Indicia <b>276</b> on the label portions <b>278</b> of the display element <b>270</b> can be seen through the tabs <b>262</b> when they overlap therewith when the stack of panels <b>256</b> is contracted upon itself. Thus, a particular section of the stack can be easily identified and accessed. The wallet insert also preferably comprises a wallet attachment flap <b>280</b> connected to the panels <b>156</b> at a bottom edge <b>260</b> where two of the panels <b>126</b> are connected. The wallet attachment flap <b>280</b> is configured for insertion in a pocket of a wallet such that the stack can be expanded and contracted while attached to the wallet.

Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, a preferred embodiment of an indexing system package <b>301</b> is shown comprising a container for holding a set of indexing system elements such as dividers, label sheets, and/or display elements as described above. In the preferred embodiment, the container comprises an envelope <b>300</b> having a front cover <b>304</b> and a back cover <b>306</b> joined together along edges <b>308</b>. An opening <b>310</b> extends along side <b>312</b> and is dimensioned to allow for the insertion of indexing system elements between covers <b>304</b>, <b>306</b>. In a preferred embodiment, at least one tabbed divider <b>302</b> is received within envelope <b>300</b>. As in embodiments described above, tabbed divider <b>302</b> includes a tab <b>328</b> that defines a label window for viewing label indicia therethrough. In alternate embodiments, a plurality of tabbed dividers <b>302</b> can be received within envelope <b>300</b>. In other embodiments, other products, including other indexing system elements such as label sheets and or display elements can also be received within envelope <b>300</b>. A flap <b>314</b> extends from front cover <b>304</b> and bends over opening <b>310</b> to contact back cover <b>306</b> to seal the indexing system elements within the envelope <b>300</b>.

Front cover <b>304</b> includes an opening <b>316</b>, which is preferably a cut out portion, adjacent the tabs or label windows of the dividers contained therein such that the label windows are visible in opening <b>316</b>. A label portion <b>320</b> is disposed on an interior surface of back cover <b>306</b> and is also visible in opening <b>316</b>. At least one label indicia <b>324</b> is provided on the label portion <b>320</b>. The indicia <b>324</b> may be printed directly on the envelope <b>300</b>, may be adhesively applied, or may, for example, be provided on a separate sheet behind the dividers <b>302</b>. In the preferred embodiment, label portion <b>320</b> includes a plurality of label indicia <b>324</b> and each indicia is associated with a tab <b>328</b> of the dividers <b>302</b> inserted into envelope <b>300</b> such that the tab <b>328</b> is positioned over at least a portion of the label portion <b>320</b>. The label indicia <b>324</b> are positioned to be behind a corresponding tab <b>328</b> when the dividers <b>302</b> are inserted into envelope <b>300</b> such that the indicia <b>324</b> are viewable through the tabs <b>328</b>. In this way, a potential customer can easily envision how a particular divider may appear when used in a binder or in other applications described above. Also, a customer may preferably bend back the portion of the envelope <b>300</b> that is exposed through opening <b>316</b> to see that the indicia <b>324</b> is printed behind the tabs <b>328</b>.

In the preferred embodiment, opening <b>316</b> is semi-elliptical and is positioned toward the longitudinal center of envelope <b>300</b>. In alternate embodiments, opening <b>316</b> can have different geometric configurations, different dimensions, and different locations in relation to the container or envelope <b>300</b>. The position of the opening <b>316</b> is selected to expose the windows portions of tabs <b>328</b> and the indicia <b>324</b>.

Envelope <b>300</b> is preferably made from laminated paper, however, paper board, cardboard, plastic, or other suitable materials can be used. The front and back covers <b>304</b>, <b>306</b> of envelope <b>300</b> are sized slightly larger than the indexing system elements which are to be contained therein. For example, in a preferred embodiment where the indexing system is designed for 8½×11 inch sheets of paper, front and back covers <b>304</b>, <b>306</b> have a width <b>330</b> slightly larger than the width of the tabbed dividers and a length <b>332</b> slight larger than 11 inches. In this way, the tabs <b>328</b> of tabbed dividers <b>302</b> are positively positioned over the indicia <b>324</b> when the dividers are received in envelope <b>300</b> and the indicia is visible through the label window of tabs <b>328</b>. In alternate embodiments, the container can have numerous other configurations besides an envelope. For example, in an alternate embodiment the container could be in the form of a box or any other suitable container.

Referring to FIG. 22, a preferred display stand <b>360</b> is shown for displaying indexing system packages <b>301</b>. Display stand <b>360</b> includes an upright portion <b>364</b> extending from a base <b>366</b>. In a preferred embodiment, base <b>366</b> is configured to rest upon the floor and upright section <b>364</b> is configured to extend substantially vertically therefrom to display indexing system packages <b>301</b> at a predetermined height from the floor to assist customers in viewing and purchasing the packages. In an alternative embodiment, the display stand <b>360</b> is configured to attach to a wall. Display stand <b>360</b> is preferably made from a cardboard material, however, other suitable materials can be used. Upright portion <b>364</b> includes a product storage member or portion <b>368</b> and a face member or portion <b>370</b> facing the front of display stand <b>360</b>. Product storage portion <b>368</b> includes at least one compartment <b>372</b> for holding indexing system packages <b>301</b>. Each compartment preferably has a shelf and a tab <b>377</b> extending upwardly therefrom to keep the packages <b>301</b> from sliding off the shelf. If a customer desires to purchase an indexing system package, the customer may simply remove a desired package from one of compartments <b>372</b>. Face portion <b>370</b> is set back slightly from the front of product storage portion <b>368</b>. Face portion <b>370</b> generally extends along the side of product storage portion <b>368</b> and preferably includes a label portion <b>376</b> having label indicia <b>378</b> disposed thereupon. At least one tab member <b>380</b> extends from product storage portion <b>368</b> over face portion <b>370</b> and over at least a portion of label portion <b>376</b> such that at least a portion of the label indicia <b>378</b> is covered by tab member <b>380</b>.

A window portion of each of the tab members <b>380</b> is configured to permit viewing of the indicia <b>378</b> therethrough. Preferably the entire tab member <b>380</b> is made of a sufficiently translucent or transparent material to permit viewing of the indicia <b>378</b> behind the tab member <b>380</b>. In alternate embodiments, the window portion may be in the form of a cutout, as shown in FIG. <b>4</b>.

Preferably a plurality of tabs are provided and extend from product storage portion <b>368</b> over face portion <b>370</b> and extend in alignment with and over different sections of label portion <b>376</b>. In this manner, each tab member <b>378</b> preferably overlaps a different label indicia <b>378</b> disposed on the label portion <b>376</b>, in substantially the same manner as would occur when the indexing system is used in a binder or the various other applications described herein. This configuration advantageously allows a potential customer to quickly envision how the indexing system works before purchasing the system. In an alternative embodiment, the display stand includes a product storage portion and a face portion on the back side of the stand as well so that the a customer can view the packages from both sides of the stand.

In the preferred embodiment, a user of the indexing system may create an index page, table of contents page, or label sheet from a client computer connected to a server computer over the Internet or other network. For example, from a client computer, the user can access a server computer hosting a web site, such as www.wjindex.com. A preferred web site includes a home page, such as home <b>400</b> shown in FIG. 23, to welcome a web user. The web site also includes several option buttons or links <b>402</b> which are hyperlinked to other web pages that are part of the web site. In the preferred embodiment buttons <b>402</b> include a home link <b>404</b>, template links <b>406</b>, a frequently asked questions link <b>408</b> which links to a web page that displays frequently asked questions, and a contact link <b>410</b> which links to a web page that displays information on how to contact a person about the contents of the web site.

Referring to FIG. 24, a template web page <b>412</b> is accessed if a user selects template link <b>406</b>. From the template web page <b>412</b> the user can select from several choices of templates to download to the user's computer to form the label portions and label indicia described above. In a preferred embodiment, the templates are electronic files available for download and are compatible with numerous types of word processing programs, such as Corel Word Perfect or Microsoft Word, among others. In other embodiments, the templates are software specific and a user must select a template compatible with the type of word processing software being used on the client computer. In one embodiment, once the user selects a template, the word processing application is opened on the client computer and the selected template is shown. The templates are configured to provide a plurality of user modifiable text boxes when the template is used with the appropriate software. In this manner, the template is configured to enable the printing of a label sheet with text boxes printed on a sheet of paper in a preselected format to create a label display element that can be used in an indexing system as described above.

Referring to FIG. 25, one embodiment of a template <b>414</b> includes a table of contents page <b>415</b> and a label page <b>416</b>. Contents page <b>415</b> includes a plurality of tab text boxes <b>418</b> and a title text box <b>420</b> formatted to occupy a preselected section of a piece of paper. Label sheet <b>416</b> includes tab text boxes <b>422</b> which correspond to tab text boxes <b>418</b>. When template <b>414</b> is accessed by a word processing program, headings, such as tab names or the document title, can be typed into text boxes <b>418</b>, <b>420</b> as desired. When headings are inserted into tab text boxes <b>418</b> on contents page <b>415</b>, tab text boxes <b>422</b> of label page <b>416</b> include the same headings as the corresponding text box on contents page <b>415</b>. The user can then print out the contents page and label page on standard 8½×11 paper to form label sheets to be inserted into appropriate display elements as described above. In this way, the templates are resident on the web and the user can easily create label portions having label indicia with predefined spacing such that the label indicia correlate or match up with the tabs or window portions described above.

One of ordinary skill in the art can envision numerous variations and modifications. All of these modifications are contemplated by the true spirit and scope of the following claims.